The All Blacks perform the haka before the opening pool match between New Zealand and Italy. Photo / Brett Phibbs
LYON - Portugal have no intention of following Italy's example and turning their backs on the All Blacks haka when the two teams meet in Pool C on Saturday.
The Azzurri decided to ignore the traditional New Zealand challenge, choosing instead to gather in a huddle before their
opening match in Marseille last weekend.
But they ended up paying a heavy price as the All Blacks piled on 38 points in the first 19 minutes on their way to a crushing 76-14 victory.
"It is a lack of respect not looking at the haka as it is the way New Zealand enters the game," hooker Joao Correia told a news conference after training at the Stade Gerland.
"So of course we'll look at the haka, we couldn't miss that chance to look at it. We will enjoy the moment, but we are preparing to play a game. So we will look and respect, play our game and achieve our goals if we can."
Team mate Goncalo Uva said that although the All Blacks had been the childhood idols of many of the Portuguese squad, they would be putting that out of their minds during the game.
"We have all admired the New Zealand players, but we have to put that aside when we get on the pitch and make sure we play our own game," said the second row.
"We will be thinking that we are playing different guys from the ones we worship. So I will not be playing against Chris Jack, but instead against a big tall guy who is just another player."
Portugal surprised many with a skilful and combative display in their opening match against Scotland which they lost 56-10.
Assistant coach Daniel Hourcade said correct mental preparation was the key to producing a performance to be proud of against the tournament favourites.
"We have clear objectives for this game and the mental preparation is vital," said the Argentine.
"They are going to play against players who were their idols but they have to forget that and face up to them as they would to any other team while understanding what they are up against.
"We have ambitious objectives considering the rival, but it is more to do with our play than the result. If we meet our objectives the result will follow. Our aim is to do better than Italy."
- REUTERS
